Target User:
Owners, mechanics, and service technicians working on IH 544 and 656 tractors.
Tractor Class:
Utility tractor, suitable for a wide range of agricultural tasks from row crop farming to general farm maintenance.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, accurate, and easily accessible technical information that rivals OEM manuals in scope, enhanced by digital features.
Digital Enhancements:
Improved PDF with bookmarks, searchable text, and index for efficient information retrieval, compared to traditional paper manuals.
Accessibility:
Instant download for immediate access, compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
Covered Models:
IH International 544 Tractor, IH International 656 Tractor
Engine Variants Covered:
Diesel and Non-Diesel (Gasoline/LPG)
Geographic Applicability:
Covers models and specifications relevant to North American markets where IH tractors were predominantly sold and serviced.
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to original manual for exact count; typically 500+ pages for comprehensive service manuals of this era.
Manual Classification:
Shop Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain Systems:
Engine, Clutch, Torque Amplifier, Transmission Range, Direction Reverser, Hydrostatic Drive (if applicable), Differential, Final Drive
Chassis And Steering Systems:
Front System (axle and steering components), Steering Gear, Power Steering System, Brakes
Auxiliary And Control Systems:
Cooling System, Fuel System (Diesel and LP Gas), Hydraulic System, Power Takeoff (PTO), Governor, Belt Pulley
Electrical And Ignition Systems:
Electrical System (wiring diagrams, components, troubleshooting), Carburetor (for gasoline models)
Hydraulic System Coverage:
Detailed service for the tractor's hydraulic pump, reservoir, control valves, cylinders, and hoses, covering both implement hydraulics and power steering.
Governor Service:
Details on servicing and adjusting the engine's speed governor for consistent engine RPM under varying loads.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular maintenance, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, filter replacements.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Engine Tuning:
Includes procedures for carburetor adjustment (gasoline), ignition timing (gasoline), diesel injection timing, and general engine performance optimization.
Power Steering Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for the power steering pump, cylinder, and steering linkage.
Pto Maintenance:
Information on the maintenance and repair of the Power Takeoff (PTO) system, including engagement and shaft service.
Final Drive Service:
Detailed instructions for servicing the final drive assemblies, including gears, bearings, and seals.
Diagnostic Level:
Comprehensive diagnostic charts and procedures, including electrical schematics and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Rebuild Scope:
Detailed instructions for complete disassembly and rebuilding of major components such as engines, transmissions, and hydraulic pumps.
Specifications Detail:
Includes critical torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and operating parameters.
Wiring Diagrams Completeness:
Includes comprehensive electrical system diagrams for starting, charging, lighting, and accessory circuits, aiding in electrical diagnostics.
Component Tolerances:
Provides specific internal component clearances and tolerances required for proper engine, transmission, and hydraulic system function.
Engine Family Overview:
The IH 544 and 656 tractors were typically equipped with International Harvester's own range of reliable diesel and gasoline engines, often in the 3-4 cylinder configuration.
Typical Horsepower Range:
Horsepower varied by specific engine option, but generally ranged from approximately 45-65 PTO horsepower for these models. Consult specific engine data within the manual for precise figures.
Diesel Fuel System Coverage:
Detailed coverage of diesel injection systems, including fuel pumps, injectors, filters, and associated lines and controls.
Lpg Fuel System Coverage:
Specific information for Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) fuel systems, including tank, regulator, and vaporizer components.
Diesel Fuel Filter Replacement:
Instructions for replacing primary and secondary diesel fuel filters to maintain fuel system integrity.
Engine Rebuild Details:
Comprehensive procedures for engine overhaul, including cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, and valve train service.
Carburetor Service:
If equipped with a gasoline engine, the manual provides detailed procedures for carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and rebuilding.
Transmission Options:
Manual transmission with multiple speed ranges (e.g., 8-speed or 16-speed), often coupled with a High-Low range selector.
Optional Drive Systems:
Torque Amplifier (TA) for on-the-go gear splitting and potentially Hydrostatic Drive on certain configurations or later variants.
Direction Reverser Coverage:
Detailed information on the operation, maintenance, and repair of the Direction Reverser unit, which allows forward/reverse shifting without clutching.
Gearbox Overhaul:
Procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the main gearbox, including gearsets, bearings, and synchronizers (if applicable).
Torque Amplifier Overhaul:
In-depth procedures for servicing and rebuilding the Torque Amplifier unit, including its clutch packs and hydraulic controls.
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
Specifies the correct type and viscosity of transmission and hydraulic fluid (often shared) required for optimal performance and longevity. Consult manual for specific IH recommendations like Hy-Trans or equivalent.
Tractor Safety Standards:
While specific modern safety ratings are not applicable to this era, the manual will cover safe operating procedures and maintenance of safety-critical systems like brakes and steering.
Braking System Maintenance:
Focus on proper brake adjustment, lining inspection, and hydraulic system integrity for effective stopping power.
Operator Station Safety:
Information relevant to safe operation of the operator's platform, including controls and levers.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 100-150 operating hours for diesel engines, or annually, whichever comes first. Gasoline engines might have slightly different intervals. Specific recommendations in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Regular changes are critical, usually every 600-1200 operating hours. Manual will specify exact intervals and fluid types.
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
Typically SAE 30 or 10W-30/15W-40 for diesel engines, depending on ambient temperature. Manual will list precise API service classifications.
Hydraulic Transmission Fluid Spec:
IH Hy-Trans (or equivalent premium tractor hydraulic fluid) is commonly specified for the transmission, final drives, and hydraulic system. Manual will confirm.
Coolant Type:
Specifies the correct type and mix ratio of antifreeze/coolant for the engine's cooling system.
Common Wear Points:
Wear on clutch components, seals in the transmission and final drives, and potential issues with older electrical systems or fuel injection pumps are common. Manual helps diagnose and repair.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Guidance on radiator flushing, thermostat replacement, and hose inspection to prevent overheating.
Oil Filter Cross Reference:
Manual will provide IH part numbers and likely cross-references for commonly available aftermarket oil, fuel, and hydraulic filters.
